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Best Tent Camping near Four Oaks, NC

319 Reviews

Tent campers can choose various campgrounds near Four Oaks, North Carolina, with William B. Umstead State Park Campground and San-Lee Park offering established tent sites. William B. Umstead State Park provides primitive camping with drive-in access, picnic tables, and fire rings. San-Lee Park, located in Sanford, offers year-round tent camping with approximately 10-20 sites in an open area arrangement. Both parks provide access to hiking trails and natural settings despite their proximity to urban areas.

Most tent sites include standard amenities such as fire rings, picnic tables, and access to water. William B. Umstead State Park features designated 10x10 tent pads, though some sites have tree roots that create tripping hazards. San-Lee Park provides fire pits, grills, tables, and water spigots throughout the campground area. According to one visitor, "The sites have fire pits, picnic table and running water. While you'll have to ascend to reach the campground, once you are up there, it's quite flat." Bathroom facilities with showers are available at both locations, though hours may be limited during off-seasons.

Tent campers should be aware of specific conditions at each location. At William B. Umstead State Park, the proximity to RDU International Airport means frequent aircraft noise throughout the day and night. One camper noted that "without the noise of the neighboring international airport, it's like any other natural area. However, camping in a tent means you will be hearing the sounds of jets all day long and throughout the night." The park gates close at 9pm, requiring campers to enter before this time. San-Lee Park's tent sites are arranged in a somewhat open configuration with limited privacy between sites, making it better suited for group camping. Both parks offer extensive trail systems for hiking, with William B. Umstead providing particularly good single-track trails for running and mountain biking.

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Best Tent Sites Near Four Oaks, North Carolina (8)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Four Oaks, NC

6 Photos of 8 Four Oaks Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Four Oaks, NC

319 Reviews of 8 Four Oaks Campgrounds

  • Katy S.
    Aug. 4, 2020

    MST Section 23 Falls Lake Camping

    A great spot for MST hikers

    This is a hidden gem for a MST hiker. The campground is located on a private land, has a shelter, a fire pit, and a number of tent sites. It's a hike in only campground, located approximately 1 mile from the roadside parking on Red Mill Road, Durham NC. 

    The information can be found here:

    There is an authorized camping area available on private property in this section of the Falls Lake Trail(between Red Mill Road and Old Oxford Road). Follow the blue-blazed trail off the MST approximately 1 mile west of Red Mill Road. NOTE: This campsite is on private property. It is a HUGE PRIVILEGE to be allowed to camp at this location. Vandalism, neglect or any trash left at this campsite could result in closing of this campsite by the landowner. No water or toilet facilities are provided. There are seven established campsite pads for 2-person tents. Campsite rules:(1) Practice Leave No Trace ethics.(2) Do NOT leave any trash. Pack it in= Pack it out.(3) There is a 2-night maximum stay.(4) Do NOT explore past a 75 yard radius of the Shelter.(5) NO FIRES except in the established fire pit.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 4, 2023

    Four Oaks Lodging & RV Resort

    Non-Descript Roadside RV Parking Lot

    If you find yourself passing up or down the I-95 corridor and simply need a patch of land to layover for the night and you’ve got one of those incredibly large mobile homes on wheels, then this non-descript RV location near Four Oaks (look for the cross-roads of where Hwy 301 intersects Hwy 701(exit 90 on I-95) may just be the perfect spot for you. But to be perfectly clear, Four Oaks is more of a layover than a destination - I would really only consider this on the way to somewhere else where I am getting in late and leaving early. 

    With a couple dozen or so RV parking lanes for your parking pleasure, all of the sites come equipped with the typical 20 / 30 / 50 amp electrical hook-ups, waste disposal and water connections. There’s the standard picnic table, fire ring / BBQ, garbage receptacles, propane refilling stations, covered pavilions and even a community BBQ. The hosts are somewhat grumpy and offer pricing by the night, week and month. Overall, the community is inviting and friendly and there were a few that invited us over to chat with them and share a beer. While there’s not a ton of amenities to pick and choose from, this location does come with BBQ, doggie park, free WiFi & high-speed internet, store and vending machines. Near this RV parking lot, you do have access to Wilmington, Emerald Isle and lovely (but crowded) Myrtle Beach. One of the best perks though is that this campground serves up a nice continental breakfast on the weekends for campground guests, plus there's also free ice and cable for any overnight guests. 

    Insider’s tip? Here's a few: (1) Take advantage of the close proximity to 30 acre Tucker Lake (conveniently located where Interstate 40 intersects 95), where some decent fishing can be had – we caught (and released) several smallmouth bass, brook trout and black bullheads. Here, you’ll find white sandy beaches, paddle boats, kayaks and canoes for rent, rope swings, 165 foot waterslide for the kids to jump into the water and scattered open pavilions with BBQ’s and grills. There’s also a handful of ill-maintained trails to hike on; (2) If you'd like to hit the links then nearby Johnston County Country Club has some really nice fairways that you'll want to explore; (3) Should you grow weary of trying to conjure up that next meal from the depths of your onboard mini-fridge and want to try out some local fare, then head on over to nearby JP's Country BBQ where they serve up smoked chicken, ribs as well as mac-n-cheese along with some good 'ol Southern cole slaw; (4) Should you find yourself in need of anything there's Ronnie's Country Store just down the road (you wouldn't even need to drive there from Four Oaks), where you can get basic groceries, ice and just about anything for your journey; (5) My favorite site on the property is #8 or #10 as they are furthest from the nearby highway and offer decent shade; and (6) If you come bearing kayak or canoe and are looking for a nice wet piece of paradise to launch into, then check out Holts Lake located just due north of this campground where there's also some pretty decent fishing to be had. 

    Happy Camping!

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    B.W. Wells — Falls Lake State Recreation Area

    Family Friendly Campground

    B.W. Wells Campground at Falls Lake felt like stepping into a quiet forest hideaway, where the kids could explore trails, spot eagles over the water, and watch butterflies while we enjoyed campfires under the trees. It’s strictly hike-in and tent-only, so we had to pack light and plan carefully, but the trade-off was true peace and space to connect without the noise of RVs or busy roads. With shaded group sites, fire pits, picnic tables, nearby restrooms, and lake access perfect for paddling or fishing, it offered a rustic yet rewarding experience that was still close enough to Wake Forest for a quick meal or supply run when we needed it.

  • Bran P.
    Jul. 13, 2016

    Holly Point — Falls Lake State Recreation Area

    Great Stay at Holly Point!

    Great campground located just outside of Raleigh, NC (20 minutes). Plenty of large sites – for both tents and RVs. Sites have tent pads, fire rings, trash/lantern poles, etc. Gravel base on most of the sites with some natural dirt as well. Be sure to check out a site with a lake view. Huge pines and hardwoods decorate the sites as well. Sites are pretty well spread out but of course tree cover helps with privacy as well. Lots of families all around the campground. Conveniently located in the triangle area. Shower facilities are typical of what you would expect. This campground also has a nice swim area but use caution in swimming in Falls Lake. There are often high levels of bacteria (ie poo) and they often shut down the local swim holes. Also, lots of chemical contaminants drain into the lake. Overall a great campground…I would however not choose to swim or let kids swim in the lake.

  • Amelia P.
    Apr. 11, 2022

    William B. Umstead State Park Campground

    Very small

    Avoid site 6! There’s so many tree roots, it’s an awful tripping hazard around a fire pit with kids! There are only three spaces out sites, 18,19,21. These sites are 10x10 designate for your tent, and picnic table and fire ring. Some are very very close together. The trails are good, the bathrooms are clean and maintained. Firewood can be purchased for $6/bundle. Be aware this is right next to the airport, you will hear planes all day and most all night landing and taking off.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 1, 2022

    Poplar Point Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

    Outdoor Perfection @ Jordan Lake SRA Poplar Point Campground

    Poplar Point Campground could quite possibly be the best campground in all of North Carolina! Yes, I know, that’s quite a statement to make, considering all of the amazing places in the great state of North Carolina. So let me explain why I reached this conclusion:

    • Some of the most outstanding hiking trails

    • Heavily wooded forest paradise that delivers privacy and solitude

    • Perfectly maintained amenities such as picnic tables, fold-up fire ring and grills

    • Bathroom facilities are some of the best I’ve experienced with state-run facilities

    • Direct access to a fantastic lakeside experience, complete with boat launches

    • Designated swimming area complete with life vests

    • On-site park staff were nothing short of amazing, helpful and incredibly friendly

    • Close access to purchase anything that might be needed 

    Insider’s tip? Be sure to get down to the lake from wherever your campsite is just after sunset and bring a couple of folding chairs and a telescope (pre-planning here is needed!) to catch a glimpse of one of the most amazing star-studded night skies you’ve ever seen in your life! 

    Happy Camping!

  • L
    Jul. 21, 2018

    Cliffs of the Neuse State Park Campground

    State Park

    Very nice state park with rv and tent sites. They have electric and water hookups. There are picnic tables and fire rings at each site. Firewood is available from the ranger. There are showers and toilets also. Many hiking trails with cliff overlook of the Nuese River. There is a swimming area and Connor rental also.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Jordan Lake Crosswinds

    Big Water, Tall Pines & Gorgeous Lakefront Sunsets

    Nestled along the shores of Jordan Lake, Crosswinds Campground is one of those places that makes one feel like they just scored a million-dollar lakefront spot for the cost of a campsite fee. First impressions? Towering pines everywhere, a breeze rolling off the water and the faint hum of boats out on the lake. It’s a large, well-loved campground that still manages to feel peaceful – provided you’re not parked next to that one guy who thinks 'quiet hours' are just a suggestion.

    The facilities here strike a nice balance between rustic and comfortable. Out of the 182 sites, 134 offer water and electric hookups, making it RV-friendly while still keeping things woodsy. Every site has the basics: picnic table, fire ring, lantern / garbage holder and enough tree cover to keep you from baking like a biscuit in the North Carolina summer sun. Bathhouses are clean and scattered through the loops in just about the right proportion where the loos feel like an overcrowded line to see your favorite band with a dump station on site at each of the campground loops. Roads are well-paved –although you will find that errant pothole just waiting to take out one of your tires, so tread carefully – but a little snug for bigger rigs, so if you drive something the size of a tour bus, maybe don’t test your parallel parking skills here.

    The lake is the true star. With 180 miles of shoreline surrounding a 12,000-acre reservoir, Jordan Lake sprawls wide enough to feel like a small ocean … and Crosswinds puts you right on the edge of it. Beyond the lake itself, Jordan Lake State Recreation Area covers a span of some 46,000 acres of public land, so there’s tons of nature to explore here. Boating, fishing and kayaking are all top-notch, and the eagle-spotting here is so good you’ll feel like you wandered onto a National Geographic special. If you want civilization, the quaint and full-service townships of Cary, Apex and Pittsboro are all close by for groceries, breweries or just a break from your campfire cooking experiments.

    As for the campground itself, there are 3 distinct loops: A, B & C (yes, even your kindergartner can keep these 3 straight!). Here’s a breakdown of each loop, because each one offers up something different and unique – some things good, some things not so much – that may influence where you choose to camp. Here’s a snapshot:

    Loop A (AKA 'Boats & Bobbers'): (1) the only loop that is entirely non-electric, so if powering up your campsite is important, then bring your own source or look to the other loops; (2) closest to the main entrance, so great for quick access, but the only loop if you take a left at the fork (the other 2 loops are right of the fork); (3) nearest the boat launch, so you will experience all of the boat-launching skippers driving westward past your loop from dusk to dawn, which is great if you are thumbing your way to the boat launch, not so great if you prize peace & quiet; (4) an ‘easter egg’ of a hidden trail exists near A21 that will lead you down to the lakeshore to a quiet spot perfect for uncorking that vintage Bordeaux you’ve been looking for the right location and moment to savor; and (5) IMHO the best sites are those that are lake-facing such as 19– 22 and 45– 47.

    Loop B (AKA 'Sand & Swimming'): (1) if Loop A is defined by its proximity to the boat launch, then this loop can be dubbed the Beach Loop as it is the only circuit with an actual beachhead and proper swimming area; (2) while centrally located in between the other 2 loops, this area is definitely considered more tranquil and has a tighter feeling of community; (3) unlike the previous loop, this one has campsites with running electric and water, but there’s a bonus to some of these sites as they are considered duplex campsites, so while a bit more$ ($25 more for non-electric and $40 more for duplexes with electric), you’ll have more space, which is especially important if there’s 2 families looking to camp together; and (4) IMHO the best sites here are those westernmost, lake-facing spots such as 24, 26, 30, 32, 34, 36 and 40.

    Loop C ('Sunsets& Sundowners'): (1) just like the previous loop, here you’ll find all campsites have running water & electric, so no primitive shenanigans to deal with here; (2) of the 3 loops, this is the one located most northernly, most secluded, furthest from the entrance and has no amenities (like a beach or boat launch) that will draw non-camping traffic; (3) the biggest draw of this loop are the arresting views of Lake Jordan, especially at dusk, where you can place your fold-up camping chair in just the right direction, sit back and sip on those sunset-inspired Mai Tais; (4) There’s a small, hidden beach (shhh! don’t tell your fellow campers in Loop B, lest they become disenfranchised!) that you can access near site 32 that will allow for a private swim or late-night evening hang-out staring at the breathtaking moonlit starscape; and (5) IMHO the best sites are (you guessed it) the ones that have the best views of that incandescent sundowner view facing westward, so you’ll want to eye spots 19, 21, 23, 24 – with the absolute pinnacle sites being 24, 26, 30, 32, 34 – as well as those that have even a partial view, including 36, 40 and 42.

    Insider Tips?  Here's a smattering: (1) Plan a swim or paddle near the Ebenezer Church swimming beach, just a short drive from Crosswinds. It’s less crowded than the main day-use areas and offers sandy shoreline, gentle water entry, and shady picnic spots; (2) For paddling, launch in the morning from the camper-only ramp before the motorboats hit the water and turn it into Daytona-on-the-lake; (3) Eat at The Fearrington House Restaurant in Pittsboro if you’re feeling fancy – exotic meats and Oregon Pinot Noirs so smooth they’ll make you forget you slept on a foam mattress last night; (4) Bring bug spray – the mosquitoes here treat Off! like it’s a garnish; and (5) Don’t skip stargazing on a clear night, the Milky Way shows off, and it’s better than cable.

    Happy Camping!

  • Katy S.
    Jul. 6, 2020

    Crosswinds Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

    Great access to the lake

    This is a pretty nice campground, similar to other state parks in North Carolina. The sites are spacious, we stayed at a double site that allowed up to 4 cars. The site was level and stayed dry during the heavy rain, however we saw other sites that had big puddles, with tents in the water. The bathrooms were cleaned regularly, but they were not very nice. The shower didn't look good at all, we didn't use it.

    A great things about the campground is that it has its own kayak/canoe ramp, just a few minutes drive from the site. We saw people fishing from the ramp as well. On our morning paddle we saw a couple of bald eagles, they were amazing. We stayed at the campsite after heavy rains, so the beach was closed. It must be nice when not flooded.

    This is a state campground, so alcohol is not allowed.

Guide to Four Oaks

Tent campsites near Four Oaks, North Carolina position campers between the Piedmont and Coastal Plain regions, with elevations ranging from 150-300 feet above sea level. The area experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters where freezing temperatures are rare. Seasonal thunderstorms occur frequently during summer afternoons, requiring campers to secure equipment properly.

What to do

Mountain biking trails: William B. Umstead State Park offers excellent single-track trails that appeal to bikers of all skill levels. "I've been to this park over a dozen times to run, and every time seems better than the previous one. Depending on where you park, you can access excellent 8-14 mile loops on the main gravel paths. The single track trails will keep you entertained for quite some time. Consider bringing your bike with you too!" shares one regular visitor.

Fishing opportunities: RTP Lakefront Campsite provides direct water access for anglers. "Feel free to bring your kayak or canoe to take out onto the water," notes a campground representative. The lake contains bass, catfish and bream with best fishing during morning hours.

Hiking the Mountains-to-Sea Trail: Explore sections of North Carolina's signature long-distance trail. A camper at MST Section 23 Falls Lake notes, "This is a hidden gem for a MST hiker. The campground is located on private land, has a shelter, a fire pit, and a number of tent sites. It's a hike in only campground, approximately 1 mile from the roadside parking on Red Mill Road."

What campers like

Nature center activities: San-Lee Park offers educational programming for visitors wanting to learn about local ecosystems. "This park has lots of hiking trails, a fantastic park for the kiddos, Nature Center, a gorgeous lake perfect for a day of fishing, mountain bike trails, paddle boat rental and a pretty impressive campground!" reports one visitor.

Proximity to urban amenities: Campers appreciate the convenience of William B. Umstead State Park Campground while still feeling immersed in nature. "This is a great little campground right inside Raleigh. I've camped there several times with the kids and it's great because it's so close and there are a few good hikes in Umstead Park," explains a regular visitor.

Paddling options: Multiple camping areas provide water access for kayaking and canoeing. At San-Lee Park, visitors can enjoy "hiking and biking trails as well as kayaking and other water sports on the lake there," according to a recent camper. Rental equipment is often available during summer months.

What you should know

Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require advance planning while others operate differently. At San-Lee Park, one visitor reported: "Reservations are not taken, but rather, tent campers can book a campsite on a first-come, first-served basis. While I was there in late September, trust me, the place was somewhat busy, and apparently camping continues here till the end of October."

Trail conditions: Youth Tent Camp at William B. Umstead State Park offers access to multiple trail types. "Umstead is an awesome place to come for the weekend whether you are into camping, hiking, running, or biking. There are a wide variety of single track to larger sand/dirt paths," notes one regular visitor.

Historical features: Several campgrounds contain structures with historical significance. At William B. Umstead State Park, "there are historic cabins with cots to sleep on. There is electricity in the cabins," explains a camper who stayed in the group camping area.

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: When selecting tent campsites near Four Oaks for family trips, consider proximity to play areas. San-Lee Park provides multiple recreation options: "Once you park your vehicle at the main parking lot, to the right, you'll see the children's playground - just past this and up a slight incline, stay to the left and you'll come to the campground in about 50 yards."

Educational opportunities: Sycamore Rustic Cabins provide structured accommodations with nearby learning experiences. "There are pavilions that are great for cooking or serving a large brunch after our run," mentions a visitor about the main William B. Umstead facilities, highlighting the multipurpose areas available.

Group camping considerations: For family reunions or larger gatherings, San-Lee Park offers an open layout. "Not a bad campground. There are maybe 10 or so sites here. They are all contained in one open area. It's almost like one big group site... It's an okay place, great if you are with a large group, as the sites are open but situated somewhat close to each other."

Tips from RVers

Limited RV-friendly options: Most campgrounds in the immediate Four Oaks area primarily accommodate tent camping with few dedicated RV sites. At Family Wilderness Camp in Raven Rock State Park, the facilities focus on tent camping despite having some hookup availability.

Hookup availability: William B. Umstead State Park provides limited electric hookups including both thirty-amp and fifty-amp connections. The primitive camping areas feature "drive in, picnic table, fire ring, tent spot, and trails starting at your back door," according to a tent camper.

Site spacing awareness: RV campers should note that many campgrounds in this region have sites positioned with minimal separation. "There's not a ton of brush between you and your neighbors," notes a camper about San-Lee Park, which may impact privacy for larger vehicles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Four Oaks, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Four Oaks, NC is William B. Umstead State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 18 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Four Oaks, NC?

TheDyrt.com has all 8 tent camping locations near Four Oaks, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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